Rwanda · Primate Tours

7-Day Rwanda Primate Safari with Gorillas, Chimps and Lake Kivu

7 Days Round trip from Kigali Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Scenic drive through Rwanda's famed 'Land of a Thousand Hills'
02 Track playful chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest
03 Take an exhilarating canopy walk above Nyungwe Forest
04 Explore Lake Kivu's serene islands by boat
05 Trek mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park
06 Immerse yourself in Rwandan culture at Gorilla Guardians Village
07 Track the rare and charming golden monkeys
08 Visit Kigali's Genocide Memorial Centre, local markets, and artisan shops

Experience the enchanting beauty and diverse wildlife of Rwanda on this 7-day safari. Perfect for primate enthusiasts, this adventure includes encounters with chimpanzees, golden monkeys, and the majestic mountain gorillas. Your journey begins with the serene Nyungwe Forest, continues to the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu and the awe-inspiring Volcanoes National Park, and concludes with a vibrant city tour of Kigali.

Your journey begins with the serene Nyungwe Forest, continues to the tranquil shores of Lake Kivu and the awe-inspiring Volcanoes National Park, and concludes with a vibrant city tour of Kigali.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Kigali, Volcanoes National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park

Languages English, French

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival and Scenic Transfer to Nyungwe Forest

Start your adventure with a scenic drive to Nyungwe Forest, capturing the breathtaking landscapes of Rwanda's famed thousand hills.
After a briefing, settle into your chosen lodge for a refreshing retreat.

Day 02

Chimpanzee Trekking and Nyungwe Canopy Walk

Embark on an early morning trek to track playful chimpanzees in Nyungwe Forest.
After lunch, experience the exhilarating canopy walk, offering a bird's-eye view of the lush forest and its diverse wildlife.

Day 03

Transfer to Lake Kivu and Island Boat Ride

Enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring to the stunning Lake Kivu.
After lunch with a lake view, take a boat ride to explore the lake's serene islands, followed by an optional swim or relaxation by the shore.

Day 04

Lake Kivu Exploration and Transfer to Volcanoes National Park

Explore the scenic beauty and vibrant fishing villages around Lake Kivu. Birdwatchers will delight in the diverse avian species.
In the afternoon, transfer to Volcanoes National Park and settle into your lodge, enjoying spectacular views of the Virunga volcanoes.

Day 05

Gorilla Trekking and Gorilla Guardians Village

Wake up early for a thrilling gorilla trekking adventure.
After an unforgettable hour with the gorillas, return for lunch and rest.
Later, visit the Gorilla Guardians Village to immerse yourself in Rwandan culture through dance and crafts.

Day 06

Golden Monkey Tracking and Twin Lakes Excursion

Track the rare and charming golden monkeys in the morning.
After lunch, enjoy a scenic drive to the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo, marvelling at their picturesque beauty.

Day 07

Kigali City Tour and Departure

Conclude your safari with a tour of Kigali, visiting the Genocide Memorial Centre, local markets, and artisan shops.
Relish your last moments in Rwanda before your guide transfers you to the airport for your departure.

End of tour.

Where this trip takes you

Nyungwe Forest National Park canopy, Lake Kivu islands, Volcanoes National Park views, Gorilla Guardians Village

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Kigali 3 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Accommodation: Mid-range option for all six nights
Meals: Full-board meals as per the itinerary (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Transportation: Comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle with a professional driver/guide
Activities:
- Kigali city tour
- Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe Forest
- Canopy walk in Nyungwe Forest
- Boat ride on Lake Kivu
- Mountain gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park
- Visit to the Gorilla Guardians Village
- Golden monkey tracking
- Visit to the twin lakes of Burera and Ruhondo
- Tour of Kigali, including the Genocide Memorial Centre and other key sites
Permits: Gorilla trekking, chimpanzee, and golden monkey tracking permits
Entrance fees: All national parks and activity entrance fees
Guided tours: Professional English-speaking guides for all activities

What's Not Included

International flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, phone calls)
Additional beverages and meals not included in the itinerary
Optional activities not specified in the itinerary
Tips and gratuities
Vaccinations and medical precautions
Rental of trekking gear or equipment
Additional nights after the tour

What to bring

Essential travel documents
Clothing and footwear
Trekking gear
Health and hygiene:
- Personal medication
- High-SPF sunscreen
- Insect repellent with DEET
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes
Photography and electronics
Miscellaneous:
- Snacks and energy bars
- Notepad and pen for journaling

Know before you go

Visa Requirements:
- Ensure you have a valid visa (if applicable) before entering Rwanda. You can apply online for an e-visa or get a visa on arrival for certain nationalities.
Health Precautions:
- Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory. It is also recommended to be vaccinated for hepatitis A, typhoid, and tetanus.
- Malaria: Rwanda is a malaria-endemic area. Take antimalarial medications as prescribed and use insect repellent.
Packing Essentials (depends on the season):
- Light, breathable clothing for the day and warm layers for the evenings.
- Waterproof jacket and sturdy, comfortable hiking boots for trekking.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
Gorilla Trekking Permits:
- Gorilla trekking permits are required and should be booked well in advance due to limited availability. The cost is $1,500 per person.
Fitness Level:
- Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking can be physically demanding. Ensure you are in good health and reasonably fit for several hours of hiking through varying terrain.
Local Currency:
- The Rwandan Franc (RWF) is the local currency. Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and restaurants, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions.
Cultural Sensitivity:
- Respect local customs and traditions. Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas.
Safety:
- Rwanda is generally safe for tourists. However, stay informed about local conditions and follow advice from your tour guide and local authorities.
Communication:
- English, French, and Kinyarwanda are the official languages. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, and Rwanda's local language is Kinyarwanda.